Rabbi’s Hale and farewell

JOEL PORTNOY has announced his intention to step down as rabbi of the Hale community in Manchester over the next few years.

He told members at a gala dinner on Sunday night celebrating the community’s 40th anniversary and 30 years of his spiritual leadership.

“After 30 years in the rabbinate, [wife] Ruthie and I are looking forward to new opportunities in Israel,” he said. “By announcing our intention in advance, we are giving the kehilla time to find our successors, allowing for a smooth transition for this vibrant community.

“It has been our pleasure to live and work with really wonderful people and we are sure we will keep in touch with all of them.”

During Rabbi Portnoy’s tenure, Hale has opened a number of new facilities and the community now numbers around 750people.